Chinese Premier Warns Of Toll From Dust Storms

April 19, 2006 -- In the wake of severe dust storms that struck Beijing and northern China this week, China's prime minister today said the country needs to do more to combat pollution and environmental destruction.

Wen Jiabao called the storms a warning that damage to the environment is creating massive economic losses and threatening people's lives and health.

Heavy tree cutting and desertification have contributed to the problem.

(Reuters, AP)